AMA, AARP offer Web resource to promote stronger patient-physician partnerships

America's physicians are asking patients to be a partner in their own care. The steps patients can take are found in "The patient-physician relationship: A partnership for better health care and safer outcomes," a downloadable resource from the American Medical Association (AMA), in collaboration with the American Association of Retired People (AARP).

This new resource outlines responsibilities patients and physicians can strive to meet through a shared commitment to enhancing their health. A list of additional Internet resources that patients and physciians can access for more information is also included.

The partnership between patient and physician is the hallmark of our nation's complex health care system. When patients and physicians form a strong relationship based on mutual responsibility and trust, patients are more likely to be active participants in their own care. By working effectively with their physicians to form a partnership, patients increase their potential for achieving better, safer outcomes.

"As doctors, we are here to help our patients and are committed to improving their safety," said AMA Trustee Peter W. Carmel, MD. "Physicians and patients can work together to enhance the patient's understanding of—and participation in—the plan of care, and to improve the patient's ability to self-manage his or her care."

Through its Making Strides in Safety® campaign, the AMA has partnered with the Institute for Healthcare Improvement to increase patient safety by helping prevent common in-hospital system errors.

Learn more and download the tools.